Rickie Fowler displayed impressive form at the start of the 3M Open 2025, shooting a flawless bogey-free 6-under-par 65 on Thursday, July 24. This solid performance contributes to increased optimism about his prospects in the FedEx Cup Playoffs as he seeks to build momentum heading into the critical stretch of the season.

After a sluggish start to the year with a strokes gained average of +0.42 during the first six months, Fowler has elevated his game significantly in recent weeks, posting +2.2 strokes gained this month alone. His impressive round featured six birdies, signifying a return to consistent, strong play.

Rickie Fowler Shares His Goals and Reflections After Round One

In a post-round interview, Fowler emphasized the importance of steady golf, acknowledging that good performances can resolve many challenges. He highlighted his recent improvements and expressed confidence in his form heading into this week’s tournament and the upcoming playoff events.

“Well, at the end of the day, good golf solves a lot of things,” he said. “Luckily I’ve been starting to play a little bit better these last few months and had some decent finishes. Good solid start today. But yeah, looking forward to play well this week and go into next week and put ourselves in a good position.”

“Ultimately I think initial goal is to make it to BMW and be inside the top-50, but we’ll take it day by day for now,” he added.

Discussing the conditions on the course, Fowler noted that the soft playing surfaces contributed to numerous scoring opportunities, although he remained cautious about areas requiring precise execution. His approach was aggressive yet controlled, enabling him to take advantage of openings without overreaching.

“It was definitely out there, a lot of birdies to be made, but at the same time there’s a few holes that you have to keep your guard up in a way and make sure you execute. Other than that, a lot of times where you can stay aggressive and be on offense. Yeah, good solid, fairly simple day for me and a nice way to start the week,” he concluded.

Detailed Breakdown of Rickie Fowler’s First Round at the 3M Open

Fowler’s round began on the back nine, where he quickly found his rhythm. Over nine holes, he played steady par shots across the first three holes before turning momentum with a birdie on the par-3 13th hole. He then continued to build momentum with additional birdies on holes 14, 15, 17, and 18, finishing the inward nine at 4-under 32.

The front nine saw Fowler maintain his strong play, carding a total of 33 strokes with birdies on the par-4 7th hole. His ability to stay bogey-free despite an aggressive posture underscored his command on the course, completing the front nine 2-under. Overall, he posted a 6-under 65 for the round.

• Back Nine (holes 10-18): Hole 10 (par 4): 4, Hole 11 (par 4): 4, Hole 12 (par 5): 5, Hole 13 (par 3): 2, Hole 14 (par 4): 4, Hole 15 (par 4): 3, Hole 16 (par 4): 4, Hole 17 (par 3): 2, Hole 18 (par 5): 4 – IN 32 (-4)
• Front Nine (holes 1-9): Hole 1 (par 4): 4, Hole 2 (par 4): 4, Hole 3 (par 4): 4, Hole 4 (par 3): 3, Hole 5 (par 4): 4, Hole 6 (par 5): 4, Hole 7 (par 4): 3, Hole 8 (par 3): 3, Hole 9 (par 4): 4 – OUT 33 (-2)
• Total: 65 (-6)

The Road Ahead: Implications for Rickie Fowler’s FedEx Cup Campaign

Fowler’s exceptional start at the 3M Open 2025 boosts his confidence and positions him well in the race for the FedEx Cup Playoffs. His goal to reach the BMW Championship, which includes being ranked inside the top 50, now seems more attainable as he continues to regain form after a challenging season start. Maintaining this momentum will be critical as the tournaments grow increasingly competitive, with each round offering an opportunity to secure his place among the playoff contenders.

With improved strokes gained and steady play under favorable course conditions, Rickie Fowler’s 3M Open performance marks a hopeful turning point in his season and energizes his campaign to rise through the FedEx Cup ranks in the weeks ahead.

Our Reader’s Queries

Q. Why did Rickie Fowler quit?

A. Rickie Fowler pulled out of the WM Phoenix Open before the second round on Friday because he was unwell, according to the PGA Tour. On Thursday, he scored 3 over par, shooting a 74 in the first round at TPC Scottsdale. Fowler, who is 36 years old, has six career victories, one of which was the 2019 WM Phoenix Open. He was also the runner-up in both 2010 and 2016.

Q. Did Rickie Fowler go to Liv?

A. Looking back at why Rickie Fowler chose not to join LIV Golf.

Q. Are Rickie Fowler and Rory McIlroy friends?

A. On Sunday in Las Vegas, Fowler was leading after three rounds, with McIlroy just two shots behind. They have known each other for a long time. They often meet at top tournaments and are friends.

Q. Has Rickie Fowler joined LIV Golf?

A. Fowler used to have Farmers Insurance on his hat and Rocket Mortgage on his shirt. He said the absence of these logos isn’t because he’s planning to join LIV Golf. He trusts the PGA Tour board completely.